Maksim Aleksandrovich Chmerkovskiy.
The Boy from Russia.
Maksim Chmerkovskiy was born on January 17th, 1980 to Aleksandr and Larisa Chmerkovskiy. Maks has a younger brother named Valentin (Val for short), who is also a dancer.
Maksim's parents brought him to his first dance class at the age of four. He began gaining interest in his new hobby, but when he reached his teenage years, dance was the last thing on his mind. He wanted to play basketball, soccer, and baseball, basically any sport - just not dance. However, dancing was such a huge part of his life that he could not give it up.
It was at this time of his life that he was in a skiing accident, which resulted in severe right leg injuries and hospitalization for months. He had to undergo many surgeries and constantly be monitored by doctors and physical therapists. Doctors told Maks about his high chance of being handicapped for the remainder of his life, let alone running and dancing. Upon learning this, Maks became stronger with a strong urge to prove them wrong- and so he began rigorous physical therapy and dedicated months of his time to healing. Before long, Maks was is great shape and dancing. Maks invited his doctor to his first competition (after his accident) and left him speechless. It was then that Maksim learned the importance of dedication, desire and strength.
The next biggest challenge Maksim had to face was immigrating to America and the financial and language barriers that came along with the move. The entire Chmerkovskiy family moved here in order to start a new life and to give Maks and Val more opportunities. Both brothers are forever grateful to their parents and everything they have helped them accomplish.
It is in America that Maksim took his hobby to another level. Maks and his family opened Rising Stars Dance Academy. Since then, Maks has made a huge impact on ballroom dancing in the United States and throughout the world.
Sarah - The gorgeous girlfriend.
I've never been so in love. And until I met her, I thought I knew what how great it felt to be in such a special relationship. She is beyond amazing and I've never been so happy in my life.
[Under Co.]